Investigating how obesity affects colon cancer growth
Engineered Colon Cancer Tissue to Examine the Role of the Obese Microenvironment in Tumor Aggressiveness
This study is looking at how being overweight might change the way colorectal cancer grows and behaves, using special lab models that mimic real tumors, to help find better treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10880437 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the obese microenvironment influences the aggressiveness of colorectal cancer (CRC). By creating engineered tissue models that mimic patient-specific tumor environments, researchers aim to explore how obesity-related factors affect tumor composition and behavior. The study utilizes advanced techniques in tissue engineering and bioinformatics to analyze the interactions between cancer cells and their surrounding environment. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how obesity impacts cancer progression, potentially leading to more tailored treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer, especially those with obesity or related metabolic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with colorectal cancer who are not obese or do not have metabolic conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment approaches for colorectal cancer patients, particularly those who are obese.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the tumor microenvironment can significantly impact cancer treatment strategies, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Auburn, UNITED STATES
- Auburn University at Auburn — Auburn, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lipke, Elizabeth a — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Lipke, Elizabeth a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.